x 16 ounce can chopped tomatoes with juice
Rich in lycopene, an antioxidant associated with cardiovascular health, along with vitamin C, potassium, and fiber. Canning actually increases bioavailable lycopene compared to fresh tomatoes due to heat processing.
About
Canned chopped tomatoes with juice are a processed tomato product consisting of ripe tomatoes that have been mechanically chopped and preserved in their natural juices, typically with minimal additives such as salt and citric acid. The product is produced by harvesting mature tomatoes, washing, chopping, and packing them into hermetically sealed cans with tomato juice to maintain moisture and prevent spoilage through heat sterilization. The result is a shelf-stable ingredient that retains much of the nutritional profile and acidic properties of fresh tomatoes while offering extended storage capability and convenience for year-round use.
Canned chopped tomatoes are available in various regional styles, with Italian varieties often emphasizing San Marzano cultivars known for their sweetness and low seed content, while American and other European versions may derive from different tomato cultivars. The texture consists of distinct tomato pieces suspended in juice, distinguishing them from tomato purée (smooth) or whole canned tomatoes (unbroken).
Culinary Uses
Canned chopped tomatoes are fundamental to numerous cuisines, particularly Italian, Spanish, and Latin American cooking. They serve as the base for sauces (marinara, bolognese, salsa), soups (minestrone, gazpacho), stews, braises, and curry pastes. The texture allows for quick incorporation into dishes without additional processing, while the juice provides both liquid and flavor concentration. These tomatoes work particularly well in dishes requiring long, gentle simmering where fresh tomatoes' delicate texture would deteriorate. Common applications include pasta sauces, bean dishes, chili, shakshuka, and ratatouille.